TechGearLab

If you only have the occasional electrical project and are searching for a low-cost option to toss in your toolbox, check out the AstroAI AM33D. This simple multimeter can help with troubleshooting AC and DC circuits and has the crucial audible continuity check to help you track down a broken wire or loose connection. It includes a set of simple probes and has some of the basic convenience features we want in a multimeter, like an integrated backlight and a data hold function. It also features a square wave generator, though that's a feature most people likely won't use much. 
Unfortunately, this meter isn't auto-ranging, which in our minds is its biggest flaw. This can make it much more difficult for beginners to use - and can even trip up some more advanced users if they aren't paying attention. We also wish the backlight was slightly brighter and that the integrated stand held the meter at a better viewing angle. Despite these flaws, this meter can get the job done at a fraction of the cost of the top-tier models and is a good choice if you don't frequently use one of these tools. 

If you only have the occasional electrical project and are searching for a low-cost option to toss in your toolbox, check out the AstroAI AM33D. This simple multimeter can help with troubleshooting AC and DC circuits and has the crucial audible continuity check to help you track down a broken wire or loose connection. It includes a set of simple probes and has some of the basic convenience features we want in a multimeter, like an integrated backlight and a data hold function. It also features a square wave generator, though that's a feature most people likely won't use much. 
Unfortunately, this meter isn't auto-ranging, which is its biggest flaw, in our opinion. This can make it much more difficult for beginners to use &mdash; and can even trip up some more advanced users if they aren't paying attention. We also wish the backlight was slightly brighter and that the integrated stand held the meter at a better viewing angle. Despite these flaws, this meter can get the job done at a fraction of the cost of the top-tier models and is a good choice if you don't frequently use one of these tools. 

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Through weeks of testing, the AstroAI 6000 earns its spot as our all-around favorite multimeter. Compared to other premium products, this model combines an impressive set of both AC and DC measurement capabilities in a convenient and affordable package. This meter has plenty of additional functionality, allowing you to check components like transistors, diodes, resistors, and capacitors, as well as measure temperatures using the thermocouple. For DIY electronic projects, household wiring repair, or working on 12/24 VDC systems found on cars and boats, this meter is an excellent option. 
However, we did find a few minor flaws with this product. The magnetic hanger isn't particularly strong, so there is a possibility that you could accidentally knock it off if you are using it to adhere the meter to a magnetic object. Also, the magnet tends to collect metal flakes, component leads, dirt, and other loose metallic objects. The kickstand can be tricky to unfold, and it is very hard to pull the probe covers off if you need longer ones. It has a greater tolerance than some other products out there, but this shouldn't matter much unless you are doing very high-end technical work. Despite these small critiques, the AstroAI 6000 is an exceptional digital multimeter. It's a great tool for troubleshooting all sorts of circuits and wiring and is the product we recommend first for most people.

The AstroAI 6000 earns its spot as our all-around favorite multimeter. Compared to other premium products, this model combines an impressive set of AC and DC measurement capabilities in a convenient and affordable package. This meter has plenty of additional functionality, allowing you to check components like transistors, diodes, resistors, and capacitors, along with measuring temperatures using the thermocouple. The AstroAI 6000 is an excellent option for DIY electronic projects, household wiring repair, or working on 12/24 VDC systems found on cars and boats. 
There are a few minor flaws to consider. The magnetic hanger isn't particularly strong, so you could accidentally knock it off if you are using it to adhere the meter to a magnetic object. Also, the magnet tends to collect metal flakes, component leads, dirt, and other loose metallic objects. The kickstand can be tricky to unfold, and it is tough to pull the probe covers off if you need longer ones. The AstroAI 6000 has a greater tolerance than some other products out there, but this likely won't matter much unless you are doing very high-end technical work. Despite these small critiques, this is an exceptional digital multimeter. It's a great tool for troubleshooting all sorts of circuits and wiring and is the product we recommend first for most people.

Also Great

For beginner DIYers getting started with electrical projects, we recommend the Crenova MS8233D. This capable multimeter is jam-packed with functionality at a price that won't break the bank. It can measure resistance, alternating and direct current, voltage, and frequency. It has a continuity check and a diode test which allows the current to run in one direction. This device also includes handy features like a backlight, hold, and max functions. This Crenova model comes with the typical point probes, a pair of alligator clip test leads, and a nice storage case to keep it protected in a tool bag. 
Built with beginners in mind, this meter lacks some of the more advanced features, like a temperature probe or a dedicated transistor test. It only has a maximum function &mdash; no minimum function. Still, it's a great value and easy to use, so we think the Crenova MS8233D more than compensates for its flaws, making it our top recommendation to beginners or those looking for basic functionality at a bargain. 

We recommend the Crenova MS8233D for beginner DIYers getting started with electrical projects. This capable multimeter is jam-packed with functionality at a price that won't break the bank. It can measure resistance, alternating and direct current, voltage, and frequency. It has a continuity check and a diode test, allowing the current to run in one direction. This device also includes handy features like a backlight, hold, and max functions. This Crenova model comes with the typical point probes, a pair of alligator clip test leads, and a nice storage case to keep it protected in your tool bag. 
Built with beginners in mind, this meter lacks some of the more advanced features, like a temperature probe or a dedicated transistor test. It only has a maximum function &mdash; no minimum function. Still, it's a great value and easy to use, so we think the Crenova MS8233D more than compensates for its flaws, making it our top recommendation to beginners or those looking for basic functionality at a bargain. 

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